Casseroles are great especially for meals with family and friends but what makes them even better can be the topping you choose to put on them!

From nuts to bread crumbs the topping can add that special pizzazz to a casserole. Each topping can give someting different to a dish including texture, taste and visual appreciation.

You will want to put toppings on just prior to baking. Most toppings are better if freshly added. You can freeze casseroles but a good rule of thumb is to add the topping after thawing to help it have the crispness you desire.

I also prefer to make my own bread crumbs by baking the bread slices on low heat until thoroughly dry and crumbling them. Stale bread crumbs from a bag can ruin a perfect casserole!

You can also make your own "custom" toppings by mixing ingredients such as nuts, cheeses, herbs, and cereal or bread crumbs and create your signature dish!

Remember if you add cheeses to your toppings you'll want to watch them closer as cheese tends to overcook quickly.

Start simple if you aren't used to using toppings by making simple bread crumb toppings then get to experimenting with your favorite flavors, herbs and seasonings.

Evolution in the kitchen is limited only by your imagination. We don't expect every dish to come out perfect but it never hurts to try new things until you find what you like best. Here are some recipes for toppings that I enjoy using and hope you will too.

My favorite add-ins for toppings include: chinese noodles, rolled oats, french fried onions, potato chips, bread crumbs, crackers (any flavor you like), crushed cereals such as chex, shredded wheat & grapenuts, pepperoni, grated cheese, coconut, pecans and other nuts and even fruits and cereal/fruit mixtures for things like dessert casseroles.


Easy Bread Crumb Topping

1 1/2 cups soft bread crumbs
2 Tbsps melted butter
herb seasoning blend, to taste

Combine all and place on top of casserole and bake until bubbly and browned to your liking.

Coconut/Crumb Topping

1 c. corn flake crumbs
1/2 c. brown sugar
3/4 stick melted butter
1 c. coconut
1/2 c. chopped pecans

This is great on top of dessert, squash or sweet potato casseroles!


Garlic Crumb Topping with Cheese

1 cup white bread, coarsely crumbled
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 Tbsps chopped fresh parsley
2 Tbsps vegetable oil
1 clove garlic, finely chopped

Great on vegetable casseroles!

Potato Chip Topping

Very simple! Just take plain potato chips, drizzle a little melted butter on them and place them on top of casserole for the last 15 - 20 minutes of cooking or until lightly browned.